The LOURDES Regional Cancer Center is the area's premier facility dedicated to spiritually based, comprehensive cancer care. Since 1957, the Lourdes Regional Cancer Center has been providing the Southern Tier of New York with outstanding cancer care.

Now, nearly fifty years later, the LOURDES Regional Cancer Center continues that mission. Since 1971, the Lourdes Regional Cancer Center has been accredited as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program. Most recently, Lourdes has been awarded the 2008 Commission on Cancer Outstanding Achievement Award by the Commission on Cancer American College of Surgeons. The Award is designed to recognize cancer programs that strive for excellence in providing quality care to cancer patients. Lourdes is one of only 95 facilities in the US to receive this award.

Today, Lourdes is among the largest and most sophisticated community cancer centers in the country. Here within the region's premier facility dedicated to the fight against cancer we've gathered the area's top physicians and oncologists. We've assembled select teams of cancer nurses and specialists and we've brought to the Southern Tier some of the newest weapons to fight cancer.

Pastoral care, nutrition services, and rehabilitation services are also available for both outpatients and inpatients. Lourdes Regional Cancer Center also maintains a link with the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) database. This database provides the latest information on research advances and new treatments, as well as emerging topics on the influence of genetics, environmental factors and lifestyle factors in the development of cancer.

For more information visit www.lourdes.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Breast Self Exam (BSE)?

A breast self-exam (BSE) is a technique used by women to become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breast. BSEs are important in keeping you aware of changes in your breasts. Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel is crucial in detecting abnormalities.

How often should a Breast Self Exam be performed?

A monthly BSE is recommended for all women beginning at age 20.

What is a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)?

A clinical breast exam (CBE) is similar to a BSE, except it is performed by your health care provider. If you have questions about how to perform a BSE, your health care provider can discuss and demonstrate the proper technique during your CBE.

When Should I receive a Clinic Breast Exam?

Depending on your family history and whether or not breast cancer has affected someone in your family, CBEs should be performed at least once every three years beginning at age 20. After age 40, CBEs are recommended at least once a year. Generally, CBEs are performed during annual Pap smear and pelvic exams.

What is a screening mammogram?

A screening mammogram is a low dose x-ray of the breast. A mammogram consists of two images of each breast. The images are used to detect changes in the breasts of women who have no signs or symptoms suspicious for breast cancer. An annual screening mammogram is recommended for all women over the age of 40.

What is a diagnostic mammogram?

A diagnostic mammogram is used for problem solving. For example, a diagnostic mammogram would be performed if a lump is found in the breast, or if there are other signs suspicious for breast cancer. A diagnostic mammogram might also be used to follow a particular finding over time. Diagnostic mammograms are tailored to each patient’s case and are monitored by a board certified radiologist who interprets the images and determines whether further testing is needed.

Who reviews the mammography image/results?

All mammography results are reviewed a minimum of two times. The first review is performed by one of our board certified radiologists. The second review is performed by the R2 ImageChecker. The R2 ImageChecker is a Computer Aided Detection (CAD) system that analyzes mammograms giving a computerized “second opinion.”

What is digital mammography?

Digital mammography is a system where x-ray film pictures of the breast are replaced by solid-state detectors that convert x-rays into electric signals. These detectors are similar to those found in digital cameras. The electrical signals are used to produce images (similar to a digital photograph) of the breast that can be viewed on a computer screen or printed on special films. The dramatic difference in the quality of that picture allows Lourdes radiologists a better opportunity to discover abnormalities.

What is Breast Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the breast. Breast ultrasound is used as a supplemental tool in detecting and diagnosing fluid-filled versus solid abnormalities in the breast.